Bensalem Township was recently awarded a state grant to develop an active transportation plan and now officials are seeking the community’s input via a survey developed to gauge methods used to go places in the municipality.
Active transportation refers to walking, cycling, using a wheelchair (or other micro-mobility device), or accessing transit to get to everyday destinations. Healthy and vibrant communities mean having safe access to active transportation. However, there are often physical barriers to commuting through means other than driving, according to officials.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) and the Pennsylvania Downtown Center announced Bensalem, among 10 other communities, is receiving $50,000.00 to develop an Active Transportation Plan with the goal of increasing physical activity by connecting local destinations with improved pedestrian, bicycle, and transit networks.
Grant recipients through the WalkWorks program will work over the next year with transportation and community planners to collect data, assess current conditions and aspirations, and incorporate public input to craft their Active Transportation Plans.
“The WalkWorks program addresses multiple needs at the same time — expanding access to both our community and to nature,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “Enabling more people to walk, bike, or wheel to more places while enjoying the benefits of outdoor physical activity boosts physical and mental health. This initiative is a win-win-win as physical activity, like walking, is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress and improve health.”
Credit: Bensalem Township
When more people have more options for getting where they need to go safely, it makes for healthier communities, with reduced risk of both crashes and chronic health conditions, Bensalem officials said in a release.
“From reducing traffic and noise to improving air quality and public health, we know there are benefits to prioritizing more sustainable transit. We’re proud to partner with the Department of Health and local leaders to expand trail networks that connect neighborhoods, encourage outdoor activity, and attract visitors who support local economies,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn.
Please take 5-10 minutes to complete the Bensalem Active Transportation Survey! Officials recommend sharing it with your family and friends. Your input will determine the type of work we will prioritize to meet the needs of our community, Bensalem officials said.
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